Cloud security

Garda World Security Corporation, an entrepreneurial-driven corporation focused on building global champions in security services, AI-enabled security technology, integrated risk management and cash automation solutions, announced the launch of ECAM, a North American pioneer in advanced AI-driven surveillance technology.  ECAM combines the world’s most advanced live video surveillance technology with human expertise to deliver real-time protection with unmatched precision and vigilance. ECAM intelligent security ECAM delivers intelligent security with proprietary and patented mobile and permanent remote video monitoring ECAM delivers intelligent security with proprietary and patented mobile and permanent remote video monitoring tailored to industries like residential communities, construction, commercial real estate, logistics, auto dealerships and critical infrastructure. By combining smart tech with expert eyes on every camera, ECAM offers an unrivalled hybrid security monitoring solution combining the speed and precision of AI-powered threat detection and deterrence with the critical thinking and experience of human security professionals.  Future of surveillance and security “With ECAM, we're building more than a company — we’re building a global champion business that will shape the future of surveillance and security. By combining the scalability of advanced AI with decades of operational expertise, we’ve created a platform that delivers a level of efficiency, reliability and insight unmatched in the industry,” said Stephan Crétier, Founder, Chairman, President and CEO of GardaWorld. “ECAM already commands the largest footprint of monitored mobile and permanent surveillance units in North America, positioning us as the emerging market leader in a rapidly expanding sector. We’ve invested aggressively to scale, innovate and unlock long-term value — with a laser focus on market share, operational excellence and sustainable growth. The opportunity in surveillance ahead is massive and ECAM is uniquely positioned to lead.”  Unique, newly developed proprietary technology deployed  ECAM cast a proprietary upscaling technology and process for enhancing the solution and quality As part of its launch, ECAM has also launched a proprietary upscaling technology and process of enhancing the resolution and quality of lower-resolution video footage using advanced algorithms. This new technology, known currently as “Integra”, is now deployed across all ECAM surveillance systems and represents a significant advancement in how video surveillance footage is processed and analysed.  Unlike traditional approaches, image resolution can remain lower at origin and upscaled up to 6x for AI detection and monitoring fidelity. All of this occurs within the advanced ECAM cloud. The result: significantly reduced bandwidth usage and dramatically enhanced detection performance.  Data transmission efficiency With up to a 40% boost in AI detection accuracy and a 50% increase in identification range, ECAM’s “Integra” tech enables earlier, more reliable threat recognition.  “Integra” is designed for low-resolution input from edge, but high-resolution output into cloud AI, and it delivers up to 6x greater data transmission efficiency — a game-changer for organisations seeking to scale surveillance without compromising network performance. ECAM performance security solutions With up to a 40% boost in AI detection accuracy and a 50% increase in identification range “ECAM enters the market at a time when customers are demanding smarter technology, faster threat detection and response and greater cost efficiency,” said Christopher Brooks, Chief Operating Officer of ECAM. “Our deeply customer-centric model is built on operational excellence and innovative proprietary technology, developed by our own in-house R&D teams." "We deliver high-performance security solutions with speed, precision and value without unnecessary complexity or overhead. By combining AI-driven innovation with deep executional and human expertise, we’re enabling our customers to scale their security smarter, respond faster and realise stronger ROI from day one.”  GardaWorld’s acquisition of Stealth Monitoring ECAM, bringing to life the vision of Every Camera, Always Monitored, is the product of a strategic combination between ECAMSECURE, a pioneer in outdoor video surveillance, and Stealth Monitoring, a North American pioneer in innovative commercial mobile and permanent video security solutions.  This business integration follows GardaWorld’s acquisition of Stealth Monitoring in late 2024 and leverages the success of GardaWorld’s established ECAMSECURE platform to create an even stronger, innovative and comprehensive AI-driven security offering. ECAM has approximately 140,000 cameras currently monitored across North America.

With over 29,000 attendees walking the showroom floor, ISC West 2025 marked another eventful year for the security industry and a standout event for the Gallagher Security team.  Gallagher’s booth was busier than ever before as attendees packed in to experience the manufacturer's latest innovations, reconnect with familiar faces, and engage in thoughtful conversations about what’s next for security. Gallagher’s security solution Changing attitude was exemplified by the Gallagher booth’s clear showstopper, QuickSwitch “Every year the energy in our booth grows, the relationships deepen, and the conversations get sharper,” reflects Melissa Vidakovic, Director of Marketing – the Americas. “The quality of those conversations really stood out to me this year – there’s a shared sense that the industry is ready to challenge the status quo and embrace what’s possible.”  That changing attitude was exemplified by the Gallagher booth’s clear showstopper, QuickSwitch, which made its debut at this year’s event. Designed to give businesses a streamlined, simplified migration pathway from legacy systems to Gallagher’s world-class security solution, QuickSwitch drew large crowds throughout the show. How Gallagher Security is seen in the Americas region “We knew QuickSwitch was going to disrupt the show, but I was encouraged by how much the solution resonated with those who stopped to chat with our team,” says Vidakovic. “It’s a simple concept, but it unlocks an unbelievable amount of value, which is what we heard repeated back to us over and over throughout the week.”  Chief Executive Mark Junge believes the recognition of value delivered by QuickSwitch reflects a sea change in how Gallagher Security is seen in the Americas region. Forefront of security innovation “Many in this market have seen Gallagher as a new player on the scene, but we’ve been at the forefront of security innovation for nearly 40 years,” Junge explains. “QuickSwitch provides immediate access to our innovative solutions, but more importantly, it gives people access to a team of experts who deliver full-scale support on top of solutions that increase efficiency and productivity. That’s the real value of the solution, and I’m thrilled it was recognised by ISC West attendees and that there’s excitement about the possibilities QuickSwitch unlocks.”  Gallagher’s cyber-resilient platform Gallagher solutions solve challenges across sectors from critical infrastructure to education The first full display of the complete Controller 7000 family also generated buzz, with booth visitors able to see Gallagher’s flexible, cyber-resilient platform up close.  Real-world customer stories helped bring it all to life, with hands-on demos showing how Gallagher solutions solve challenges across sectors from critical infrastructure to education and beyond.  Gallagher Security's powerful solutions “ISC West is always a highlight, but this year was something special,” summarises Vidakovic. “We’re walking away inspired by the momentum, encouraged by the feedback, and fired up to make this a record year for the Americas team.”  As the dust settles on a big week in Vegas, Junge says one thing is clear: “The future is bright, and Gallagher Security is more committed than ever to leading with people, partnerships, and powerful solutions.” 

Cisco has made several transformative innovation and partnership announcements that will help security professionals secure and harness the power of AI. An increasingly sophisticated threat landscape combined with an expanding talent shortage means the need has never been greater for machine scale security and response. According to Cisco’s upcoming 2025 Cybersecurity Readiness Index, companies worldwide underestimate the complexities of securing AI, with 86% saying their organisations have experienced AI-related security incidents in the past 12 months. Dynamic cybersecurity threat landscape Cisco’s announcements further its commitment to developing these capabilities Cisco’s announcements further its commitment to developing these capabilities for customers through ecosystem partnerships and for the broader community through open-source security models and tooling. “The cybersecurity threat landscape has never been more dynamic and complex, with adversaries constantly emboldened and enabled by AI to drive new attacks and exploits,” said Jeetu Patel, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at Cisco, adding, “To fight back, understaffed security operations and IT leaders need AI power of their own.” He continues, “Cisco is continuing its mission to secure AI and leverage AI for security with novel open-source models and tools, new AI agents, and IoT advancements, alongside the full breadth of the Cisco Security Cloud. Together, these innovations will help level the playing field and deliver AI innovation that makes all businesses more secure.” Improved Threat Detection and Response with Cisco XDR Security teams are inundated with thousands of threat alerts daily. Cisco XDR addresses this challenge by correlating telemetry across network, endpoint, cloud, email, and more, using agentic AI to surface what matters most to organisations. Integrating several new features, Cisco XDR will deliver decisive, AI-powered responses to stop attacks faster than ever. The new Instant Attack Verification integrates data from the Splunk platform, endpoints, networks, threat intelligence, and more – and uses agentic AI to automatically create and execute tailored investigation plans. This feature swiftly investigates, confirms threats, and enables security teams to automate responses with confidence to stop attacks. New automated XDR Forensics capabilities New automated XDR Forensics capabilities provide deeper visibility into endpoint activity New automated XDR Forensics capabilities provide deeper visibility into endpoint activity, increasing the accuracy of investigations. Additionally, a new XDR Storyboard clearly visualises complex attacks, empowering security teams to understand threats in seconds and decisively respond faster. To further help organisations strengthen their digital resilience - Splunk Enterprise Security (ES) and Splunk SOAR 6.4 enhance defences against known and unknown threats for better visibility, accurate detections, and integrated and automated workflows that increase efficiency. Organisations that combine Splunk ES and SOAR with Cisco XDR will gain enhanced network visibility and detection to expedite investigations and stay ahead of threats. With this breadth of solutions, Cisco helps organisations build a SOC of the future that harnesses agentic AI to identify threats faster, accelerate resolutions, and realise massive productivity gains. Splunk SOAR 6.4 is generally available, and Splunk Enterprise Security 8.1 will be available in June. Cisco XDR changes security services delivery “Cisco XDR has fundamentally changed how we deliver security services, and we're eager to leverage the enhancements in our vision for the future,” said Omar Zarabi, CEO, Port53, adding “Building on its network-centric and open XDR approach, the emphasis on clarity, decisiveness, and speed – delivered through Instant Attack Verification powered by agentic AI, and automated XDR Forensics – will further streamline our operations and deliver even better results for our customers.” “Cisco XDR aims to address key challenges in the SOC with its focus on 'Clear Verdict. Decisive Action. AI Speed,'” said Frank Dickson, Group Vice President, Security & Trust, IDC, adding “The combination of Instant Attack Verification, XDR Storyboard visualisations, and automated XDR Forensics offers a streamlined approach to threat management. The effectiveness of these features in improving security outcomes will depend on real-world deployment and integration within existing security ecosystems.” Security for AI and AI for Security Cisco continues its commitment to help customers tackle the growing challenges of managing AI security risks Building on the recent launch of AI Defense, Cisco is continuing its commitment to help customers tackle the growing challenges of managing AI security risks. Cisco announced a new integration as part of a deepened relationship with ServiceNow to enable confident and secure AI adoption at scale. The first integration will bring together Cisco AI Defense with ServiceNow SecOps to provide more holistic AI risk management and governance. Cisco introduces Foundation AI Cisco also introduced Foundation AI, a team of renowned AI and security experts that joined through the Robust Intelligence acquisition, focused on developing cutting-edge technology to address the fundamental security issues of the AI era. The Foundation AI team has released the first open-source reasoning model built specifically for enhancing security applications. They will also debut novel benchmarks to evaluate cyber security models on real-world security use cases, plus additional tools and building blocks for teams to leverage in adapting the models. These models and tools will encourage collaboration among first-class security experts and machine learning engineers, while delivering essential infrastructure that cyber security teams can immediately leverage. AI Supply Chain Risk Management security controls New set of AI Supply Chain Risk Management security controls will help customers to secure AI application artifacts Additionally, a new set of AI Supply Chain Risk Management security controls will help customers to secure AI application artifacts. Even before deploying models in production, enterprises are exposed to security vulnerabilities, like malware in AI model files and poisoned data sets that are downloadable from open-source repositories. By combining AI model threat assessment and detection with comprehensive network enforcement, enterprises can confidently accelerate their AI adoption and innovation. This includes identifying and blocking malicious AI model files, before they enter the enterprise; automatically detecting and blocking AI model files with risky or restrictive open-source software licenses that pose intellectual property and compliance risks; and flagging and enforcing policies against AI models originating from prohibited suppliers. Enhanced Industrial IoT Security Solutions As industry digitisation accelerates and industrial AI emerges, critical infrastructure and industrial networks are constantly exposed to cyber threats. Enhancing the Cisco Industrial Threat Defense solution and further extending IT security to industrial settings, these new integrations with Cisco Cyber Vision include: Cisco Vulnerability Management and Splunk Asset and Risk Intelligence to help prioritise OT cyber risks; Cisco Secure Firewall to help automate industrial network segmentation to better protect operations; and the Splunk OT Security add-on in Splunk ES to unify IT and OT visibility within the SOC, helping detect threats traversing domains to secure global enterprises.

Cequence Security, a pioneer in API security and bot management, announces significant enhancements to its Unified API Protection (UAP) platform to deliver the industry’s first comprehensive security solution for agentic AI development, usage, and connectivity. This enhancement empowers organisations to secure every AI agent interaction, regardless of the development framework. By implementing robust guardrails, the solution protects both enterprise-hosted AI applications and external AI APIs, preventing sensitive data exfiltration through business logic abuse and ensuring regulatory compliance. Ensuring regulatory compliance There is no AI without APIs, and the rapid growth of agentic AI applications has amplified concerns about securing sensitive data during their interactions. These AI-driven exchanges can inadvertently expose internal systems, create significant vulnerabilities, and jeopardise valuable data assets. This new layer of security enables customers to detect and prevent AI bots such as ChatGPT Recognising this critical challenge, Cequence has expanded its UAP platform, introducing an enhanced security layer to govern interactions between AI agents and backend services specifically. This new layer of security enables customers to detect and prevent AI bots, such as ChatGPT from OpenAI and Perplexity from harvesting organisational data.  Unidentified user agents Internal telemetry across Global 2000 deployments shows that the overwhelming majority of AI-related bot traffic, nearly 88%, originates from large language model infrastructure, with most requests obfuscated behind generic or unidentified user agents. Less than 4% of this traffic is transparently attributed to bots like GPTBot or Gemini. Cequence’s ability to detect and govern this traffic in real time, despite the lack of clear identifiers, reinforces the platform’s unmatched readiness for securing agentic AI in the wild. External AI harvesting attempts Key enhancements to Cequence’s UAP platform include: Block unauthorised AI data harvesting: Understanding that external AI often seeks to learn by broadly collecting data without obtaining permission, Cequence provides organisations with the critical capability to manage which AI, if any, can interact with their proprietary information. Detect and prevent sensitive data exposure: Empowers organisations to effectively detect and prevent sensitive data exposure across all forms of agentic AI. This includes safeguarding against external AI harvesting attempts and securing data within internal AI applications. The platform's intelligent analysis automatically differentiates between legitimate data access during normal application usage and anomalous activities signalling sensitive data exfiltration, ensuring comprehensive protection against AI-related data loss. Discover and manage shadow AI: Automatically discovers and classifies APIs from agentic AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and Salesforce Agentforce, presenting a unified view alongside customers’ internal and third-party APIs. This comprehensive visibility empowers organisations to easily manage these interactions and effectively detect and block sensitive data leaks, whether from external AI harvesting or internal AI usage. Seamless integration: Integrates easily into DevOps frameworks for discovering internal AI applications and generates OpenAPI specifications that detail API schemas and security mechanisms, including strong authentication and security policies. Cequence delivers powerful protection without relying on third-party tools, while seamlessly integrating with the customer’s existing cybersecurity ecosystem. This simplifies management and security enforcement. Enterprise software applications "Gartner® predicts that by 2028, 33% of enterprise software applications will include agentic AI, up from less than 1% in 2024, enabling 15% of day-to-day work decisions to be made autonomously. We’ve taken immediate action to extend our market-renowned API security and bot management capabilities," said Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence. Ameya Talwalkar adds, "Agentic AI introduces a new layer of complexity, where every agent behaves like a bidirectional API. That’s our wheelhouse. Our platform helps organisations embrace innovation at scale without sacrificing governance, compliance, or control." These extended capabilities will be generally available in June.

March is Women in Security Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and promoting the contributions of women in the security field—particularly in cybersecurity. This observance aligns with Women’s History Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work still needed to advance gender equity in security. Evolving role of women in security The security industry has witnessed a steady increase in women's participation. According to ISC2 Research in its “Women’s Role in Filling the Workforce Gap” report, women make up an estimated 20 to 25 percent of the security industry. Promisingly, younger generations are entering the profession at higher rates, with 26 percent of working professionals under 30 identifying as women. The security industry has witnessed a steady increase in women's participation The research tells us that women are thriving in a variety of roles, from engineering and system administration to sales, marketing, and project leadership. Key factors driving this transformation include mentorship programs, male allies advocating for gender equality, and cultural shifts recognising the unique perspectives and strengths women bring to security challenges. These efforts are fostering more inclusive environments and ultimately strengthening the industry. The value of diverse perspectives in security Security is not a one-size-fits-all industry—each organisation and facility has unique needs that require varied perspectives. Greater representation of women has introduced fresh approaches to problem-solving, fostering collaboration and driving innovation. By integrating diverse viewpoints, security professionals can create more effective solutions that better address end-user needs. Industry support for women’s professional growth SIA's WISF offers subcommittees such as NavigateHER, SupportHER, and UpLiftHER Organisations like the Security Industry Association (SIA) and ASIS International have established networking platforms and initiatives to support women in security. Events such as the Security LeadHER Conference provide valuable professional development and networking opportunities. Companies are also investing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) initiatives, hands-on training, and recruitment programs to attract more women into the field. Additionally, SIA's Women in Security Forum (WISF) offers subcommittees such as NavigateHER, SupportHER, and UpLiftHER, which provide pathways for engagement and growth. Challenges women in security face Despite progress, challenges remain. Many women still feel it necessary to repeatedly prove their expertise, take on additional informal responsibilities, or carefully navigate workplace dynamics. Imposter syndrome can be another hurdle, even for accomplished professionals. However, women in security are addressing these challenges by setting boundaries, advocating for themselves, and supporting one another through mentorship. By excelling in leadership and technical roles, women are reshaping outdated perceptions and advocating for more inclusive workplace policies. Steps industry pioneers can take To further support women in security, industry pioneers could: Provide targeted professional development and career advancement opportunities. Foster strong, supportive communities that recognise and mentor women. Implement structured mentorship programs that connect experienced professionals with newcomers. Promote workplace flexibility to help employees balance personal and career commitments. Actively challenge biases and advocate for meaningful change within organisations. Advice for women entering the security field Here are key pieces of advice for women considering a career in security: Own Your Expertise – Have confidence in your knowledge and skills. Seek Out Mentors & Allies – Connect with supportive professionals who can guide your career. Build a Strong Network – Join organisations like ASIS Women in Security, SIA Women in Security Forum, or Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), and attend industry events to expand your connections. Speak Up & Take Space – Confidently share your ideas and challenge outdated norms. Develop Resilience & Advocate for Yourself – Push past biases, demand the respect you deserve, and negotiate for fair salaries and promotions. Keep Learning & Stay Ahead – Continually build your expertise to stay competitive in the evolving security industry. The future of women in security As the security industry evolves with technological advancements and global changes, opportunities for women will continue to expand. Women are not just participating in the industry’s growth—they are shaping its future. With growing mentorship programs, male allies advocating for gender equality, and ongoing cultural shifts, the focus is no longer just on breaking barriers but on building bridges to new opportunities.

Technology advances in the security industry are transforming the way modern systems are designed and installed. Customers today are looking for greater scalability and flexibility, lower up-front costs, and operational efficiency. Cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) solutions, AI-enhanced tools, and IoT-enabled sensors and devices are increasingly in demand. The traditional role of the systems integrator is evolving as a result. While security integrators have always worked closely with end users, today’s pioneers go beyond installation and maintenance. They align security strategies with evolving business needs, integrating IT, cybersecurity, and data-driven insights into their offerings. A look at the past and present Integrators are often asked to help tailor solutions and provide expertise in IT and cybersecurity Traditionally, systems integrators specialised in installing and maintaining wired physical security systems like CCTV, access control, and alarms. The service model was built around large, up-front investments and project-based installations. However, today customers are seeking comprehensive solutions. They’re looking to wirelessly integrate security infrastructure with cloud-based SaaS systems and IoT devices. While modern systems are often faster to deploy, they’re most effective when supported by ongoing consulting and strategic planning. Integrators are often asked to help tailor solutions and provide expertise in IT and cybersecurity. Data requirements and modern systems  Data requirements have also changed. Modern systems collect vast amounts of data. Advanced analytics, machine learning, and automation are now must-have tools for actionable insights. Security integrators can help end users set up custom dashboards, automations, and continuous system optimisation. Let’s look at some of the specific ways the role of systems integrators is evolving and how to adapt and succeed. Strengthen your IT expertise Integrators with IT expertise can ensure that hardware is optimised and maintained for peak performance The competitive landscape today includes not just security specialists but also IT-focused integrators and SaaS providers. Systems integrators with expertise in traditional physical security solutions plus IT experience offer unique value. They understand the real-world security challenges and opportunities, along with cybersecurity and network best practices. Integrators with IT expertise can also ensure that hardware is optimised and maintained for peak performance. Their experience with legacy systems allows them to offer practical recommendations on cost-effective approaches, such as upgrading or integrating older hardware with new digital solutions. Consider who’s making the purchase decisions Traditionally, security integrators primarily sold to security directors, facility managers, and operations teams. Now, multiple stakeholders may be involved in decision-making. IT teams, CIOs, and CTOs often weigh in on purchase decisions when cloud-based security and SaaS solutions are under consideration. Customers today aren’t just shopping for cameras, access control panels, alarms, and other hardware components. They’re looking for security ecosystems that can integrate with enterprise-wide IT infrastructure and business applications. When working with these different teams, consider outlining the system's return on investment (ROI). How can the solution reduce risk for various departments? Can it help improve operational efficiency or reduce the time required to onboard and train staff? Will it make regulatory compliance easier to manage? Focus on the long-term value for the entire organisation. Take a consultative approach Another way systems integrators are adding value is by offering vertical specialisation Installation fees remain important for many integrators, but there may be additional consultative opportunities to build long-term relationships with customers. Offer services such as roadmap planning, hardware and integration maintenance, training to certify end users on the manufacturer’s product, and cybersecurity services. While cloud-based solutions reduce on-premises maintenance, they don’t eliminate the need for ongoing support and training. Consider offering training opportunities. These can lead to other benefits as well. Better-educated and technically proficient customers are usually more willing to adopt new technologies. They understand the value of these investments and have more confidence that they’ll see results. Another way systems integrators are adding value is by offering vertical specialisation. Healthcare, sports venues, critical infrastructure, education, retail - each specialty has its own set of challenges, partner networks, regulatory restrictions, training needs, and business requirements. Integrators who specialise are uniquely positioned to offer key sector-specific insights that are invaluable to their clients. Embrace the cloud A key growth area for integrators is supporting customers in their shift to cloud deployments. Cloud solutions aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each organisation is evaluating options and deciding whether cloud, hybrid, or fully on-prem solutions are the right fit for its unique needs. A key growth area for integrators is helping clients in their shift to cloud deployments Helping customers navigate and adopt cloud or hybrid solutions opens new opportunities to expand your business and deepen your relationship with your customers. Systems integrators who sell cloud solutions have the opportunity to add new layers to services for more value for customers. With a cloud solution that's easy and fast to deploy and managed and maintained by the provider, you can reduce overhead costs, staff training, and truck rolls via remote customer support. These benefits also allow you to spend time developing greater expertise in your customers’ processes. Using this knowledge, you can tailor your services towards potential productivity gains for your customers and turn them into additional sales. You ensure that your customers get the most out of the technology that’s available and that they have already purchased. Highlight your focus on cybersecurity Cybersecurity is no longer solely an IT department's responsibility. While dedicated IT security teams may still handle broader network defense, integrators play a crucial role in securing access control, surveillance, and IoT devices within a security framework. If unsecured, these devices can provide an entry point for cyber criminals to gain access to an organisation’s network. Cybersecurity is no longer solely an IT department's responsibility To best protect end users from cyberattacks, choose physical security systems with built-in security and privacy-by-design features. Help customers implement best practices to ensure their entire ecosystem is designed, built, and managed with end-to-end security in mind. Once implemented, work with your manufacturers, consultants, and end users to ensure that vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated. Every person on the network plays a role in keeping cyber threats at bay. Lean into the power of partnerships In today’s complex and dynamic security landscape, choosing the right technology partners is crucial. Ask potential partners to share their technology roadmap, and how you can offer feedback or participate in discussions about industry trends. Ideally, your partners will have a program in place to get input from integrators and end users, so they can develop products that are designed to address their most pressing issues and concerns. Your manufacturer partners should be working to help identify the evolving needs of customers and communicate these insights to systems integrators. Seek partners who actively support integrators to understand how security is evolving In addition to a good experience for the end user, strong manufacturer partners also offer solutions to streamline and automate workflows for integrators. It should be easy to order and check your shipping statuses online, for example. These are simple things that save you time and demonstrate your partner’s care for your business. Seek partners who actively support integrators to understand how security is evolving. While training is often offered on-site, some companies are now also offering blended learning models so integrators and their technicians can reduce classroom time and stay out in the field. Evolution is an opportunity Security integrators with traditional physical security expertise remain indispensable because they understand real-world risks and regulatory requirements. They can provide hands-on system deployment and optimisation. Now, there are new opportunities to build long term customer relationships. As the physical security industry undergoes this profound shift, adaptation is key. By embracing cloud and hybrid solutions, integrators can unlock new revenue streams, enhance customer relationships, and stay ahead of technological advancements. With the right partnerships and a forward-thinking mindset, systems integrators can navigate this transformation and take advantage of new opportunities being presented by evolving technology.  Leverage your deep industry experience while upskilling in cloud, cybersecurity, and IT. The strongest approach is for end users, systems integrators, IT specialists, and manufacturers to work together to navigate industry changes.

Security technology has witnessed huge advancements in recent years, particularly for those protecting critical assets or information. Facial and fingerprint recognition, ANPR and even 'mac addresses' or a person of interest's gait, now all make up the technology toolbox of forward-thinking organisations' security policy. However, humans remain the weakest link in any security chain, and the only way to correct this is to eliminate the human burden, argues Richard Hilson, head of sales for security access management specialist, Parking Facilities. Here, he examines the pitfalls in relying upon human intervention in critical national infrastructure (CNI) settings, and the future of biometrics to keep assets, information and personnel safe. Recent Verizon report 74 percent of corps are saying that insider threats are becoming more of a concern for them As with any workplace initiative, be it a simple recycling policy or a corporate password protection directive, technology is only as good as those who implement or operate it. Whilst technology can be fallible and gremlins do arise, it’s never as flawed as us mere humans with our unreliable ‘on/off’ switch. Likewise, we carry the ability to reason, to override procedures, or ignore policy, should we wish. Or as it happens, just make mistakes. In fact, according to a recent Verizon report, two out of three insider attacks happen as a result of negligence, and 74 percent of organisations are saying that insider threats are becoming more of a concern for them. Fundamental security practices Security breaches aren’t limited to external threats either, whether intentionally or not, they can come from within. Humans can, and do, ‘go rogue’, whether that’s pre-meditated criminal or malicious intent, or just by taking shortcuts. While data breaches court most news headlines in this digital era, some of the most significant security risks are those posed when employees neglect fundamental security practices such as sharing passwords or access cards. Employee negligence and insider threats  Insider negligence remains one of the pioneering causes of security breaches Insider negligence remains one of the pioneering causes of security breaches. Employees who share passwords or access cards may do so out of convenience, ignorance, or a misplaced sense of trust. Unfortunately, this creates vulnerabilities that are left open to exploitation. When multiple employees share credentials, it becomes difficult to trace actions to a single individual. This lack of accountability can complicate incident investigations and allows malicious activities to go undetected. Emergency services resources Furthermore, the sharing of passwords or access cards means inaccurate accounting of personnel, and in the event of an evacuation or major incident, central IT systems will hold misleading information of employees’ locations which could have a huge impact upon safety and potentially emergency services resources. Employees with malicious intent can exploit shared credentials to carry out unauthorised activities while shifting blame to others, increasing the risk of deliberate sabotage or theft of sensitive data. Even when there is no malicious intent, employees who share access credentials risk unintentionally exposing them to unauthorised individuals, such as contractors, visitors, or external attackers. What happens when employees compromise security? Access cards are designed to limit entry to restricted physical locations. When shared, unauthorised personnel could enter secure areas such as control rooms, rail lines, large construction sites, data centres, power plants or indeed any site meant to be kept secure. This creates opportunities for sabotage, theft, or corporate espionage. Sensitive data held within critical sites, such as blueprints, system controls, and customer records Likewise, shared passwords can lead to unauthorised entry into IT systems, allowing hackers to install malware, ransomware, or spyware. For example, a cybercriminal gaining access to an energy grid system could shut down power to entire regions, causing chaos to millions of people, and disrupting essential services. And not all data breaches are caused by online hackers gaining entry through unsecure firewalls. Sensitive information held within critical sites, such as blueprints, system controls, and customer records, becomes vulnerable when access credentials are shared too, and the disclosure of such information can have a serious impact upon a company’s bottom line, operations, and ultimately its reputation. Eliminating the human burden One way to prevent human error, or to thwart malpractice is to reduce the burden upon employees to be compliant, and eliminate our flaws by using technology that requires no intervention, decision-making or reason. Facial recognition is widely used in the civil world now, despite the concerns of various lobbyists. Used correctly it is not a ‘catch all’, but an instant recognition of persons of interest cross referenced against a database of known suspects. Our car parks are governed by automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) to gain access in and out, while border controls are using advanced biometrics for everything from facial and fingerprint recognition, through to recognition of human characteristics and gait, for both entry and to apprehend. The UK Home Office is even accelerating its transition to digital border management, using biometric technology to improve efficiencies, safety, and to track and capture known or illegal persons. What of the CNI sites? But what of the corporate world? What of the CNI sites, our airports, our national construction developments such as HS2 or our high-rise office spaces? We always ask this very question, and also ‘can you afford a security breach’ in whatever environment you’re in? Because the smart, cloud-based technology being used by governments, law enforcement authorities and Border Force have cascaded down through the civil and corporate worlds.  Immediate safety and security Security-conscious corps are diligently removing human error, by eliminating the human burden Security-conscious organisations are now diligently removing human error, by eliminating the human burden. With cloud-managed software not only are access points managed through biometric integration, but it also overcomes the issues mentioned earlier around accountability - in that the cloud will always register who has passed through an access point, or out of it. This is critical for both immediate safety and security but also for matters arising from a crisis, or emergency situation. It’s also less admin-heavy, more cost-effective and can manage and store employee records, including background checks. Employee or contractor data is encrypted, their information is safe, their interactions are secure, and businesses are protected. Implement robust access management systems Simple acts of negligence, such as sharing passwords or access cards, can open the door to catastrophic consequences, operational disruption, financial loss, and even, in the case of CNI, national security risks. To mitigate this, organisations can do worse than to implement robust access management systems, and in doing so, release employees from having to be accountable for ensuring the security of the sites in which they work. As artificial intelligence evolves, I see even more robust biometrics coming to the fore, until such time we work and live in environments that are controlled without us even knowing security checkpoints are all around us, and access management happening at every step. It will become as ‘every day’ as an automatic door allowing entry into our local supermarket - but we’re not quite there yet.

For all the emphasis on cloud systems and centralised servers at ISC West, a lot of innovation in security video systems is happening at the edge. New advancements inside video cameras are boosting capabilities at the edge, from advancements in processing power to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms that can now be deployed directly on the cameras or edge devices. Advancements in AI algorithms The progress of video systems becoming smarter at the edge is driven by the need for real-time insights, lower latency, bandwidth efficiency, enhanced privacy, and improved reliability.  Advancements in edge computing hardware and AI algorithms are enabling a range of intelligent video applications across various industries, including physical security. Smarter functionality at the edge is a benefit of new computer systems-on-chips (SoCs) that are driving new heights of performance for today’s cameras.  Axis Communications’ ARTPEC-9   Axis Communications’ new ARTPEC-9 SoC offers advanced video compression to reduce bandwidth Axis Communication’s new ARTPEC-9 system-on-chip (SoC) offers advanced video compression to reduce bandwidth and storage needs. With a low bitrate, the SoC helps deliver high-quality imaging with outstanding forensic detail. ARTPEC-9 also offers enhanced deep learning capabilities to allow users to leverage the latest video analytics and accelerate the implementation of AI technology. Axis maintains control over all aspects of the chip’s development to ensure high quality and cybersecurity. Among the benefits of ARTPEC-9 are better AI and deep learning, better image quality, better cybersecurity, and AV1 license-free video compression (see below). Hanwha Vision’s Wisenet 9 Hanwha Vision has launched Wisenet 9, its most advanced AI-powered System on Chip (SoC). Wisenet 9’s enhanced edge AI capabilities increase performance as the volume and complexity of security threats demand real-time, accurate analysis. By elevating edge-device performance, AI empowers systems to quickly analyse vast amounts of video data and discern crucial patterns and anomalies. A key differentiator driving Wisenet 9 is deployment of two Neural Processing Units (NPUs), which improve performance three-fold compared to Wisenet 7, the previous SoC generation. While one NPU handles image processing, the other focuses on object detection and advanced analytics. This dual NPU concept was introduced to ensure video quality and analytics have independent resources, thus preventing one function from impacting the performance of the other. The latest from Ambarella Ambarella is a supplier of edge AI systems-on-chips to multiple video camera manufacturers Off the ISC West trade show floor in a nearby meeting room, semiconductor company Ambarella demonstrated how it will continue to push the envelope of what is possible with generative AI at the edge. Ambarella is a supplier of edge AI systems-on-chips to multiple video camera manufacturers and recently achieved the milestone of 30 million cumulative units shipped. The demonstrations highlight Ambarella’s ability to enable scalable, high-performance reasoning and vision AI applications across its ultra-efficient, edge-inference CVflow 3.0 AI SoC portfolio. The company’s DeepSeek GenAI models run on three different price/performance levels of its SoC portfolio. In addition to advancements in GenAI processing at the edge, Ambarella integrates image processing, encoding and system-level functions into all its AI SoCs. New standard for video encoding: AV1 AV1 compression is a next-generation video coding technology that offers significant improvements in compression efficiency and video quality, especially at lower bitrates. Its royalty-free nature positions it as a crucial codec for the future of internet video. AV1 compression is a next-generation video coding technology. Axis Communication’s ARTPEC-9 chip now supports the AV1 video encoding standard. By embracing this standard, which is new to the physical security market although it was introduced in 2018, Axis sets the stage for AV1 compression to eventually become the industry standard, replacing H.264 and H.265. Network video transmission AV1 is an open-source, license-free coding format designed mainly for efficient network video transmission AV1 is an open-source, license-free coding format designed specifically for efficient network video transmission. It delivers high-quality video at low bitrates, reducing bandwidth consumption and storage costs. The codec was developed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOM), a nonprofit organisation founded in 2015 by Google, Intel, Amazon, Microsoft, Netflix, and Mozilla (among others), to provide open-standard, next-gen video coding technology. AV1 is ideal for cloud solutions—making streaming applications more robust, scalable, and capable of delivering real-time insights. Now the ARTPEC-9 chipset brings these benefits to the surveillance industry, and AV1 is currently supported by AXIS Camera Station. Providers of major video management solutions (VMS) such as Genetec and Milestone will be adding support for AV1, with further developments already underway. More intelligence at the edge Intelligence inside video cameras comes from the processing power and algorithms that enable them to perform tasks beyond simply capturing and recording images. This "intelligence" allows cameras to analyse the video stream in real-time, identify objects, detect events, and make decisions or provide alerts based on what they "see." New and improved SoCs are driving performance improvements at the edge. The increasing power of embedded processors and advancements in AI are continuously expanding the capabilities of intelligent video cameras.

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and healthcare uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate, retail and healthcare environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}

The shift from standalone systems to fully integrated solutions is one of the biggest shifts the security industry has experienced in recent years.  There is a higher demand for integrated solutions that go beyond just security at the device and software level, and manufacturers have been continuously developing improved application programming interfaces (APIs), and hybrid and cloud-connected solutions.  Artificial intelligence (AI) Also, artificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role in modern intrusion systems by helping enable automated threat detection, real-time response, and predictive analysis. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate security breaches. Security solutions are being developed with a focus on AI and machine learning to provide more proactive and resilient defences against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Benefits of AI AI-driven security solutions can continuously learn and adapt to new threats, providing more robust protection “The practical benefits of AI in security systems include enhanced accuracy in detecting threats, reduced response times through automation, and the capability to anticipate and prevent potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited,” says Sergio Castillejos, President, of Commercial Security at Honeywell. Additionally, AI-driven security solutions can continuously learn and adapt to new threats, providing businesses with more robust and dynamic protection. Unified Intelligent Command user interface Honeywell meets the challenge of better-integrated systems with a unified Intelligent Command user interface (UI). Castillejos says Honeywell continually innovates with the latest analytics and encryption to keep up with evolving threats. Honeywell’s products integrate with many offerings for partners to construct a robust and modern system relevant to their security needs.  Advanced cloud-based security Advanced cloud-based security technologies have been developed that offer real-time monitoring, automated threat detection Advanced cloud-based security technologies have been developed that offer real-time monitoring, automated threat detection, and remote management, essential for hybrid work environments, says Castillejos. “These solutions enhance scalability, improve data analytics capabilities, and provide seamless updates reducing significant maintenance costs that help companies to respond swiftly to emerging threats and enable robust, adaptive security measures.” Physical and digital security The best security systems are a combination of physical, digital, and national security, says Castillejos. While Honeywell focuses on providing the best in physical and digital security within their solutions, protecting sensitive and/or personal information must also be within the responsibility of the organisational policy.   Cybersecurity for connected devices Some of the challenges in the next five years will likely include integrating advanced technologies Security systems can safeguard this information by being highly configurable while also notifying users of unwanted activity. Sometimes, just restricting access to sensitive areas can be enough. However, in the world of data analysis and machine learning, security systems can audit and report on users who have accessed data to ensure that the protections are in place. Some of the challenges in the next five years will likely include integrating advanced technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) while securing cybersecurity for connected devices, notes Castillejos.  Balancing act “Additionally, there will be a growing need for skilled professionals to manage and maintain these complex, connected systems,” he says. “Balancing cost-effectiveness with the demand for resilient security solutions will also pose a significant challenge, especially for smaller businesses.” Legacy systems that are susceptible to vulnerabilities like cloning or unauthorised access present the largest challenge to overcome. “However, as technology evolves, it becomes more challenging for a customer to manage a unified security system rather than a collection of unique solutions that all operate independently,” says Castillejos. Disruptive technology But investing in the newest analytics, AI and IoT will not improve a company’s physical security systems if they do nothing with the data. “They are not a replacement for the devices that keep people and property safe,” says Castillejos. “They can enhance a user’s experience and speed up the time to respond when they are planned correctly.”  The best security systems will look at disruptive technology as another tool in the overall system. However, the focus should remain on the user experience. If the latest technology is not properly integrated or configured, it will turn into more noise that most operators will ignore. {##Poll1720586145 - Which is the most useful benefit of artificial intelligence (AI) in security systems?##}

Richard Thorp has been fascinated with aviation since childhood. A self-described “aviation geek,” Thorp is now the Chief Technology Officer at Swissport International AG, where he leads IT infrastructure strategy for the world’s largest ground-handling company, ensuring seamless operations across 276 airports in 45 countries, handling approximately 247 million airline passengers per year, as of the end of 2024. “If we were an airline, we’d actually be the biggest airline in the world in terms of a number of passengers we support and handle,” he says.   Security challenges Swissport’s goal is to make a tangible impact on people’s lives by enabling smooth air travel Swissport’s goal is to make a tangible impact on people’s lives by enabling smooth air travel. “If the things we do get people to their destinations safely and on time, then magically, we become more successful and profitable as an organisation,” he says.   But casting that spell had been challenging for Swissport. Three years ago, legacy IT leadership at Swissport had overcome network challenges with Cato, but more work was needed to address their security challenges, particularly in securing endpoints. Thorp and Swissport CISO, Giles Ashton-Roberts, joined Swissport in the middle of the Cato deployment. Having deep experience with a legacy zero trust provider, they were skeptical that Cato could meet Swissport’s requirements.    Cato platform Over the next 10 months of meetings, investigation, and testing Thorp and Ashton-Roberts challenged Cato, ultimately changing their perspective.  “IT is no longer seen as a blocker; it just works,” says Thorp. “I relax a bit more with the Cato platform around. It’s given us holistic way of protecting ourselves today, and a secure foundation for everything we want to do in the future.”  The challenges of a global, always-on operation  Swissport’s network helps millions of passengers, cargo shipments, and lounges worldwide Swissport’s network supports millions of passengers, cargo shipments, and lounges worldwide. Three years ago, scale was an enormous challenge—ensuring reliable connectivity for operations spanning locations and time zones. The company relied on a mix of MPLS and regional SD-WAN solutions across its now 320+ sites and airport locations. But bandwidth limitations and performance variability impacted many applications, including cloud-based, mission-critical applications.   As a result of that complicated network, expanding to new locations was resource-intensive, requiring manual setup and multiple vendor dependencies. Differences between networking tools made troubleshooting inconsistent and time-consuming. The IT team in turn had to maintain expertise in multiple networking technologies, increasing operational overhead.  What security inspection existed for unencrypted traffic Visibility was an enormous challenge. With multiple network platforms in place, Swissport’s IT team lacked a centralised view of network performance and security threats. “In the past, working with multiple systems meant inconsistency,” says Thorp. “Different platforms required different configurations, which complicated troubleshooting and made security enforcement a challenge.”  Swissport relied on a patchwork of security appliances, including firewalls and web gateways. Remote users are connected through different VPN servers deployed across different regions. The complex appliance stack required manual maintenance and lacked centralised visibility and control. Security patching was manual and error-prone and implementing consistent security policies was practically impossible, weakening Swissport’s security posture.  What security inspection existed was relegated to unencrypted traffic due to the well-founded concern that inspecting encrypted traffic could break the application experience that in this case were airline partners’ systems. Finally, the lack of consistent, advanced threat detection worldwide limited Swissport’s ability to detect and stop threats.   Visibility differentiates the Cato SASE cloud platform  Thorp and the IT team had initially leaned away towards deploying that architecture Recognising these inefficiencies, Swissport’s legacy IT team initiated the Cato relationship, connecting many of the now 320+ sites and instances in AWS and Azure to the Cato SASE Cloud Platform. When Thorp and the new IT leadership joined Swissport, about two-thirds of the connections had been deployed. Having been familiar with a legacy cybersecurity provider, Thorp and the IT team had initially leaned away towards deploying that architecture. Hearing about the value of Cato they decided to have a closer look.  “What really drew me to Cato is the visibility the platform provides. It’s incredibly easy to pinpoint connectivity issues, analyse traffic patterns, and secure our network from a single interface,” says Thorp. Cato uniquely stores the metadata of all enterprise traffic crossing the Cato SASE Cloud Platform — whether to the Internet or another location — from all endpoints — in the office and outside of it — in a single data store. This incredible resource provides Cato customers with deep, end-to-end insight into their complete network.   Much improved security and a better network  With a platform that is resilient, secure, and easy to manage, Swissport has been able to take a more proactive approach to security, streamline IT processes, and ensure a seamless digital experience for employees across the globe.   Advanced threat prevention now operates globally and protects against malware and ransomware even in encrypted traffic. “Cato’s TLS Inspection gives us the ability to inspect encrypted traffic while avoiding unintended service disruptions,” says Ashton-Roberts. “It’s been a major improvement to our security posture.”   Fine-grained access control through the always-on Cato Client connects remote users to Cato, granting access only to permitted resources. The Cato Client fully implements zero trust principles and operates outside and inside the office under one common policy set. “With Cato, every device—whether in a Swissport office or in an airport lounge—operates under the same set of security policies. That level of consistency wasn’t possible before,” says Ashton-Roberts. Deploying new network sites Cato not only delivers optimised network version worldwide but also makes deploying new networks Access is across the Cato Global Private Backbone built into the Cato SASE Cloud Platform, delivering an exceptional, secure user experience anywhere in the world. Cato not only delivers optimised network performance worldwide but also makes deploying new network sites effortless. “Connecting new airlines or contracts now takes just a few clicks,” says Thorp. Thorp’s team has also dramatically reduced network resolution times. “We recently identified and solved a performance issue in a South African location that would have taken us days before Cato,” says Thorp. “Within 15 minutes, our team identified excessive database traffic, blocked the device, and restored normal operations.”    Transforming IT by transforming the infrastructure  The transformative impact of the Cato SASE Cloud Platform on the IT team has been profound. Previously, managing multiple networking platforms required maintaining expertise in diverse technologies, creating an operational burden. The IT staff was constantly troubleshooting connectivity issues, manually configuring security appliances, and dealing with inconsistent policies across different locations. The shift to Cato not only simplified management but also allowed the IT team to focus on higher-value strategic initiatives.   “Before Cato, we had to maintain different skill sets for different platforms, which spread the team thin. Now, we have one standardised system that allows us to be much more efficient,” Thorp says. Newfound network visibility  Swissport has been able to optimise resource allocation and improve overall productivity By consolidating security and networking into a single platform, Swissport has been able to optimise resource allocation and improve overall productivity.  The newfound network visibility has also brought a shift from reactive to a proactive IT strategy that has helped the company ensure consistent service delivery across its global operations.   “For me, Cato future proofs Swissport’s IT infrastructure,” says Thorp. “The platform constantly evolves, adapts to new technologies, and provides the visibility and security we need to support our business today and tomorrow.”  Partnership with Cato proved unique  The success of Swissport’s IT transformation was built on more than just technology—it was about forming a strong, collaborative relationship with Cato Networks. From the start, Cato worked closely with Swissport to understand its unique challenges and deliver tailored solutions that addressed its global security and networking needs. “We worked directly with Cato’s product team to enhance capabilities—not just for us, but for all customers,” says Thorp.   The success of Swissport’s IT transformation was built on more than just technology Features requested by Swissport were implemented on schedule, unlike other vendors who provided only lip service. Thorp says, “Many vendors say they listen, but Cato actually delivers on what they promise.”   This close partnership has given Swissport confidence that its evolving needs will continue to be met as Cato refines its platform. “With Cato, we’re not just another customer; we’re part of a continuous innovation cycle that ensures our IT infrastructure remains future-ready,” says Thorp. “It’s rare to find a vendor so responsive and committed to delivering what they promise.” Looking ahead to the future  Swissport IT requirements continue to evolve with Cato remaining a key pillar. “With Cato in place, we know that our network is not the limiting factor in our growth,” Thorp explains.  The ongoing partnership between Swissport and Cato ensures that as technology continues to evolve, Swissport’s IT infrastructure remains secure, scalable, and adaptable to the demands of a fast-paced aviation industry.   On a personal level, Cato has given Thorp peace of mind. “I relax a bit more with the Cato platform around. It’s given us a holistic way of protecting ourselves today and a secure foundation for everything we want to do in the future. Swissport’s IT leadership now can focus on innovation rather than crisis management.”

ZeroEyes, the creators of the only AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the full U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation. Announced that its proactive gun detection and intelligent situational awareness solution has been deployed by Carbon Cliff-Barstow School District (CCBSD) in Rock Island County, Illinois.  Strengthening security with AI The ZeroEyes Gun Violence Research Centre has already analysed 34 gun-related eventsThe AI technology will be implemented at the district’s Pre-K through 8th grade school to enhance security and reduce response times in the event of a gun-related threat. The ZeroEyes Gun Violence Research Centre has already analysed 34 gun-related events at Illinois K-12 school districts this year alone. Recognising the ongoing threat of gun-related violence, the district is taking an important step by integrating ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection system to further bolster its security measures and protect against potential threats. Commitment to campus safety CCBSD maintains a comprehensive, multi-layered security programme in partnership with the Rock Island County Sheriff's Department to ensure the safety of students and staff. Alongside the district’s school resource officer, CCBSD has invested in a third-party monitored alarm system and recently upgraded its camera infrastructure. An on-site behavioural interventionist is also employed to build strong relationships with students and families.  Strengthening security “We take great pride in ensuring the safety and success of all students and staff members at our school,” said Eric Lawson, Superintendent of CCBSD. “By incorporating ZeroEyes, we’re adding another important layer of safety to our campus, and we’re confident that this proactive approach will help us promote a safe learning environment.” Smart solutions with ZeroEyes CCBSD serves 240 students from diverse backgrounds in an urban area of northwest Illinois CCBSD serves 240 students from diverse backgrounds in an urban area of northwest Illinois, part of the Quad Cities region.  The district’s mission is to prepare students to be academically successful and career-ready, foster a love for learning, and help students reach their full potential as confident, lifelong learners. The district’s 40 staff members are dedicated to ensuring the safety and educational success of every student.  ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto CCBSD’s existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Centre (ZOC. Protecting with precision The industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation centre, which is staffed 24/7/365 by military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine that the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to first responders and local staff as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. Innovating school security “The safety of students and staff is a priority for Carbon Cliff-Barstow, and we are honored to play a role in supporting that mission," said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “Our AI gun detection system will provide the district with the actionable intelligence needed to mitigate potential threats, helping to ensure a safer environment for students and staff."

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announced that Brigham Young University's (BYU) has optimised its security operations with the Genetec™ Operations Center work management system. Located on a 560-acre campus in Provo, Utah, BYU is home to nearly 34,000 students and over 5,000 faculty and staff. Enhancing campus security A robust security team of officers, supervisors,  trained students, and staff ensures campus safety The university’s robust security program includes 25 sworn officers, 15 security supervisors, and up to 400 student employees trained through its Security Academy. To better coordinate multiple departments and manage a broad range of responsibilities, BYU sought a solution that would unify operations and improve efficiency. Simplifying operations The Genetec Operations Center is integrated with BYU’s existing Security Center platform, enabling the university to consolidate tasks like dispatching, work ticketing, and activity tracking into a single system. This streamlined approach replaces disconnected tools and manual processes, helping teams collaborate more effectively and maintain clear visibility of their operations. With Operations Center, BYU has automated several key processes.  For example, routine tasks such as nightly code checks across campus divisions, equipment inspections, and building audits are now scheduled and managed automatically. This reduces the workload on dispatchers, minimises the potential for errors, and ensures tasks are completed consistently. The mobile app also enhances situational awareness for field officers, providing real-time updates on assignments and facilitating compliance with operational procedures. Flexible and customisable workflows Operations Center ensures tasks are completed efficiently while reducing the learning curve The flexible design of Operations Center allows BYU to customise workflows and reports to suit specific departmental requirements. From tracking officer locations to managing inventory and generating incident documentation, the platform adapts to support the diverse needs of the university’s security teams. The system has also streamlined onboarding processes for new staff and student employees. By offering intuitive tools and tailored workflows, Operations Center ensures tasks are completed efficiently while reducing the learning curve for new team members. Enhancing collaboration and efficiency The implementation of Operations Center has significantly improved BYU's ability to coordinate security efforts, enhance communication, streamline data sharing, and centralise documentation and auditing processes. Automation of routine processes, such as inspections and daily reporting, reduces manual effort, freeing teams to focus on higher-priority responsibilities. "First-time users of Operations Center immediately see how it benefits their organisation—no extensive training required. It delivers quick and accurate results. Without Genetec, I can't imagine how we’d manage all this information,” says Chris Autry, Managing Director of BYU Police and BYU Security.

Durham, UK-based Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) has announced that it has selected global connected safety technology pioneer Blackline Safety Corp. to help uncover safety hazards and protect lone workers at two of its water treatment sites. The water company – which provides clean water and wastewater treatment services to nearly five million people across northeast and southeast England – is the eighth of the UK’s 12 water companies to choose Blackline’s safety devices. G7c personal gas monitor Blackline’s pioneering cloud-connected G7c personal gas wearable and EXO area monitor The technology includes Blackline’s pioneering cloud-connected G7c personal gas wearable and EXO area monitor, enabling NWG to consolidate gas detection, communication, and lone worker connectivity into a single device. NWG’s decision to turn to Blackline was spurred by the risks inherent in its operations, including exposure to gases, hazardous or contaminated water, explosions from hot work or combustible gas, confined space entry and lone work. Robust and versatile safety solution An explosion at a different company’s treatment plant within the wider water industry, where four workers died, also prompted the company to invest in a robust and versatile safety solution.   “Feedback we were getting from the team on-site was that they just want to do their jobs but had too many devices, apps and things to think about, and anything we could do to simplify the process would be beneficial for everyone,” said Dan Woodward, Process Safety Business Partner at NWG. Mobile phones to maintain communication Workers had walkie-talkies, adding both complexity and cost with an additional device to manage Woodward added: “We were looking for a solution that addressed the need for gas detection and lone working features within one device and could significantly improve our safety and operational efficiency.” While NWG had in the past used portable gas monitors to detect hazardous gases, and mobile phones to maintain communication with workers, these devices had limitations – from cross-sensitivity issues that led to missed or faulty detection, operational downtime due to needing to send the devices off-site for calibrations, and mobile phones posing an ignition hazard in biogas-rich environments. Workers also had walkie-talkies, adding both complexity and cost with an additional device to manage. Remotely monitor gas levels Blackline’s all-in-one solution has significantly simplified the process for the water company. The EXO monitors, for example, remotely monitor gas levels in known high-risk areas. The G7 wearables enable multi-gas detection and reduce downtime as they can be calibrated on site.  The personal devices’ integrated capabilities – such as remote monitoring and instant worker location identification – significantly boost lone worker safety, and push-to-talk capabilities (using the device like a walkie-talkie) means workers now have reliable communication while only needing to carry one device. Benefits of Blackline’s solution NWG was able to respond immediately by issuing a ‘stop work’ order, notifying workers NWG is already seeing the benefits of Blackline’s solution. With the help of EXO, they discovered a previously unidentified hazardous area on-site, reaching 75% of the explosive limit during operations. Upon receiving a high gas alert from EXO, NWG was able to respond immediately by issuing a ‘stop work’ order, notifying workers and safely evacuating the area. Preventative measures were then able to be implemented. Integrated into daily operations NWG also noted that the Blackline devices have seamlessly integrated into their daily operations, staying connected even in underground environments where cellular signal strength can be problematic. Analytics reports from collected device data highlight areas of concern, such as previously unknown high-gas exposure zones. Northumbrian Water will join Blackline Safety at the Health & Safety Event in Birmingham, UK, on April 9, 2025, to share insights on their decision to enhance worker safety through connected technology.

In many cases, architectural design and layout dictate optimal placement of security devices like cameras, access control readers, and sensors. Poor design can lead to blind spots, reduced coverage, and ineffective surveillance. However, planning that involves all the various stakeholders can maximise both security and design elements. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: When are building design and physical security systems complementary? When are they at odds?

New technology advancements significantly increase efficiency and productivity in any industry, including physical security. Enhanced innovation both creates new products and services and improves existing products, all for the benefit of security manufacturers, integrators, and end users. Companies that embrace new technology stay ahead of the curve and gain a significant competitive advantage. In addition, they can differentiate themselves in the marketplace. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the most promising new technologies in the physical security industry?   

Technology automates tasks, streamlines processes, and improves efficiency in various fields, including physical security. But the success of today’s latest technologies depends on our ability to use them responsibly and efficiently. Optimising our industry’s use of technology requires that the industry’s workforce have the needed skills to operate the latest equipment. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How does technology innovation in security systems impact the skillsets needed by security operators and officers?